Department Chair

Office

Incoming music majors need to apply both to SVSU and to the department. Audition dates and information are below along with specific information related to auditions for select ensembles. Minors do not need to audition, but must take a music theory assessment. Non-music degree students may participate in ensembles at SVSU.

Auditioning for Entrance into the Department of Music (BA in Music or BA in Music Education)

The remaining audition date for admission for Fall 2018 is on August 24, 2018.

Auditions for entrance in Fall 2019 will be held on the following dates:

November 9, 2018

January 18, 2019

February 8, 2019

February 22, 2019

March 1, 2019

For your audition you are required to play two contrasting pieces or movements by different composers. Percussionists please note that the audition committee requests a keyboard piece and a snare piece. Timpani is also encouraged at the audition, but not required. Auditions may be recorded to assist with scholarship decisions and studio placements.

Additionally, a musicianship and written assessment, sightreading, as well as an interview will occur during your audition. Please be prepared to allow time after you perform to complete the written assessments.

Appointments can be made by either calling or emailing our office: Phone: 989-964-4159Email: music@svsu.edu

If you live more than 100 miles from SVSU, you may audition by video recording. For more information on this option, please contact Dr. Haskett at blhasket@svsu.edu.

Though not all groups are auditioned for entrance, directors may ask to hear you play individually to ensure that you are placed properly in the ensemble.

Additional Advice

If you would like to be a major or minor but cannot read music (or pass the theory assessment) you should take MUS 117D in the Winter (or alternate Spring) semester, then re-audition or take the theory test late in that Winter semester. Music 117D is Musical Experience: The Piano, which includes learning to read music and some music theory, and at the same time meets a gen. ed. requirement for category 2.

Be A Music Major For A Day

If you are interested in becoming a music major at SVSU, please consider coming to campus and visiting a class, sitting in on a rehearsal, observing a private lesson, taking a private lesson, meeting with a music student, and/or visiting with faculty. Please contact Dr. Brandon Haskett at (989)964-2768 for more information.